Researchers from Sweden and Spain have conducted a comprehensive archaeogenetic study of a community that lived in isolation on the border between the Christian kingdoms of the north and Al-Andalus during the Early Medieval period. This dynamic era, especially in the Iberian Peninsula, was characterized by religious competition, power struggles, and significant human mobility, shaping […]
Medieval Archaeology
Some of the key areas excavated and analyzed by medieval archaeologists include villages and farmsteads, noble or royal manors, monastic sites, pilgrimage churches, castles and fortifications. By investigating everything from pots and pans to palaces, medieval archaeology helps shed light on changes in technology, economy, trade, dietary practices, craft industries and more during this diverse historical epoch.
Posted inMedieval Archaeology
Genetic Analysis Reveals Post-Roman Elites United to Form Lineages and Power Groups across Europe
Recent genetic research led by Krishna Veeramah, an associate professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at Stony Brook University, has shed new light on the social dynamics and community formation in post-Roman Europe. This international study of ancient DNA provides vital insights into how early medieval elites in Europe, composed initially of several […]
Posted inMedieval Archaeology
The Vikings were passionate about tapestries decorated with historical scenes, and we will soon find out which ones were their favorites
Among significant viking archaeological discoveries is the Oseberg ship, one of the best-preserved Viking ships in the world, measuring 22 meters in length and 5 meters in width. This impressive vessel was discovered within one of the most famous ship burial sites from the Viking Age, known for being the most richly equipped grave from […]
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The Remains of Bishop Teodomiro of Iria Flavia, Who Discovered the Tomb of Apostle James in the 9th Century, Identified
After centuries of debate about his existence, a team of researchers has likely identified the remains of Bishop Teodomiro of Iria Flavia, a key figure in the origins of the Camino de Santiago. Teodomiro was the one who, according to historical sources, discovered the supposed tomb of the Apostle James in Santiago de Compostela between […]
Posted inMedieval Archaeology
At the Dawn of the Mongol Empire: A Woman Found Buried with a Yellow Silk Cloak and Valuable Objects Within the Walls of a Circular Fortress
A recent archaeological discovery in Dornod Province, Mongolia, has unearthed an elite tomb dating from the pre-Mongol period, shedding new light on a historically obscure moment between the fall of the Khitan Empire and the rise of the Mongol Empire. This finding, part of the Mongolian-Israeli-American Archaeological Project, offers a fascinating glimpse into the funerary […]
Posted inMedieval Archaeology, Science
Compass Possibly Belonging to Nicolaus Copernicus Unearthed at Frombork Cathedral Gardens
In a fascinating turn of events for archaeology and astronomy enthusiasts, a 500-year-old compass that might have belonged to the legendary Renaissance astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus has been unearthed. This discovery was made by the Warminska Grupa Eksploracyjna, an amateur archaeological exploration group in Poland. The compass, crafted from a copper alloy, was found buried beneath […]
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The Largest Medieval Altar, Consecrated by Crusaders in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, Found Covered in Graffiti
On July 15, 1149, Jerusalem marked a significant milestone: fifty years prior, European Crusaders had captured the Holy City and established the Kingdom of Jerusalem, ending centuries of Muslim rule. This golden jubilee was celebrated with a grand reconsecration of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s holiest sites. At the heart of […]
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Vikings in the Orkney Islands Discovered “The Plow Was Mightier Than the Sword”
In a study conducted by archaeologists from the University of Aberdeen, new evidence reveals that the Viking settlers in the Orkney Islands found “the plow was mightier than the sword”. Despite their notorious reputation as fierce raiders, these Norse colonists ultimately thrived through agriculture and settlement. Published in the Journal of the North Atlantic, the […]
Posted inMedieval Archaeology
Disturbing Cat Fur Use During the Middle Ages, Confirmed by Evidence Found in Portugal
In a recent archaeological find in Portugal, disturbing evidence about the fate of domestic cats during the Middle Ages has been discovered. This study, led by Eva Pires and published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, reveals that cats were not only common in medieval Portuguese households but were also sacrificed and skinned for […]
Posted inMedieval Archaeology
The Norwegian Vikings Possessed an Abundant and Disproportionate Number of Swords
A recent study published in the Journal of Anthropological Archaeology reveals that Norwegian Viking society was significantly more violent than that of Denmark. This finding is based on a detailed analysis of skeletal traumas, weapons, and archaeological evidence reflecting the social and political dynamics of these ancient Scandinavian peoples. The study offers an innovative perspective […]